Postal Worker Injured in Dog Attack During Mail Delivery

Newberry County, South Carolina, October 18, 2025

News Summary

A U.S. Postal Service worker was seriously injured by a black and white pit bull while delivering mail in Newberry County. The worker sustained significant upper and lower body injuries and required emergency medical assistance. The incident has raised questions about dog ownership responsibilities and the safety of postal workers. Community members are rallying in support of the injured worker, emphasizing the need for preventive measures for pet containment.

Newberry County, South Carolina – A U.S. Postal Service worker was seriously injured following a dog attack that occurred while delivering mail on October 11, 2025. The incident took place on Pope Street when the postal worker approached a residence to drop off a package.

A black and white pit bull attacked the postal worker, resulting in significant injuries. The worker attempted to retreat to their mail truck; however, the dog pursued and continued the attack. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) responded promptly to the scene, and the postal worker was airlifted to a trauma center in Greenville, South Carolina.

The injuries sustained by the postal worker affected multiple areas of their body, including the upper and lower body—specifically, the ankles, legs, arms, and head. The incident has also caused nerve damage, requiring skin grafts as part of the medical treatment. Fortunately, no injuries were reported regarding the dog or its owner during this event.

Newberry County Sheriff Lee Foster commented on the incident, highlighting that it was fortunate the attack did not result in any head injuries for the worker. Although a second dog was present at the scene, it was not involved in the attack. For safety, both dogs have been secured and quarantined at a shelter with the cooperation of the owner.

The dog’s owner, identified as Gerardo Ortiz, is not facing any criminal charges related to the incident at this time; the situation remains under review. Local animal control officials are working alongside USPS, the Newberry Police Department, and the sheriff’s office to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack. Authorities indicated that at the time of the incident, the dog was equipped with an electronic fence collar, designed to keep it within its owner’s property.

In light of the attack, the sheriff emphasized the importance of pet owners ensuring their animals are securely confined to prevent future incidents of this nature. While the current medical condition of the postal worker has not been publicly disclosed, the community is rallying support and sending prayers for a swift recovery.

Community Response

Following the attack, there has been an outpouring of support for the injured postal worker from community members. Residents are expressing their concern and wishing for a quick recovery, highlighting the community’s solidarity during this challenging time.

Safety Precautions for Dog Owners

The incident has raised discussions about the need for dog owners to take necessary precautions to secure their pets and prevent similar incidents in the future. Officials stress the importance of keeping dogs properly contained and under control to ensure the safety of both postal workers and community members.

Protecting Postal Workers

The U.S. Postal Service has reminded employees of the importance of staying vigilant while on the job, particularly when interacting with dogs that may pose a threat. As incidents of dog attacks on postal workers are not uncommon, the USPS continues to provide training and resources to help employees navigate such situations effectively.

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Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Postal Worker Hospitalized After Dog Attack in Newberry County
Postal Worker Injured in Dog Attack in Newberry County
Postal Worker Injured in Dog Attack in Newberry County
Postal Worker Recovers from Dog Attack in Newberry County
Newberry County Postal Worker Airlifted Following Dog Attack
Mail Carrier Severely Injured in Pit Bull Attack

Additional Resources

• WBTV
• Wikipedia: Dog Attack
• WRDW
• Google Search: Postal Worker Dog Attack
• WIS TV
• Google Scholar: Dog Bite Injuries
• WLTX
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Dog
• Fits News
• Google News: South Carolina Dog Attack

Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY

The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.